Question

To enhance bilateral cooperation in which of the following sectors, India held a discussion with the US delegation led by H.E. John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy in August 2024?

• A. Health
• B. Energy
• C. Information Technology
• D. Mining

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Energy

The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the Energy sector between India and the US, as led by H.E. John Podesta in August 2024. Key areas of focus during the discussions included: 1. Grid and Transmission Modernization: Both sides explored the possibility of technical exchanges on efforts to upgrade grid transmission to handle future load growth. Discussions also covered policy consultations and potential financial support to advance these modernization efforts. 2. Enhancing Manufacturing Capacity: Opportunities to build out India’s manufacturing capacity in critical areas like large transformers were a key topic, aiming to bolster domestic production and reduce dependency on imports. 3. Energy Storage Systems: The talks delved into the possibilities of state-to-state partnerships on long-duration energy storage studies, with further collaboration on grid-scale battery storage solutions. 4. High-Efficiency Cooling Systems: The discussions highlighted the importance of stimulating manufacturing projects and policies to increase India’s capacity to build, deploy, and export high-efficiency air conditioning systems and fans.